Restore Rather Than Destroy

The prophet Joel calls for a “trumpet in Zion” to “sound an alarm” (v. 1). This has

nothing to do with the locust plague (Joel 1:4), but this new threat to Israel’s future is

about the coming “day of the Lord” (v. 11)! Joel is describing “the northern army” (v. 20),

that would one day invade Jerusalem. He describes these northern invaders much like

he describes the invasion of locusts (v. 25). Then he calls for their repentance “with

fasting, and with weeping, and with mourning” (v. 12). The Lord is looking for a genuine

heartfelt repentance! It means turning to God (Acts 20:21), and a renewing of the mind

toward God (Rom 12:2), that results in a change of life (2 Cor 5:17).

Joel says, “rend your heart, and not your garments” (v. 13). God looks “on the heart” (1 Sam 16:17),

of inward and true brokenness (Ps 51:4). Joel’s exposure of this northern invasion also

exposes man’s rebellion (Prov 17:11), and the wrath of God (Jer 10:10). He shows the

very heart and nature of our God, Who is “merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and

abundant in goodness and truth” (Ex 34:6). God gives every soul the opportunity to

repent (2 Pet 3:9), even to their very last breath (Eze 33:11); before He executes His

judgment against those who reject Him (Nah 1:2)! As God’s children, we are told to

have “mind of Christ” (1 Cor 2:16). We are to show His love, grace, and mercy to the

rebellious and wayward people around us (Eph 4:32).

As His shining lights (Mt 5:16),we must reflect our good works to others and glorify Him!

We must pray for the lost so they might be saved and seek the restoration of those that

are deceived and “opposethemselves” (2 Tim 2:25). Just as the parents of rebellious children

 want them to come home and have a right relationship; God also wants to restore rather

than destroy. He is coming soon – now is the time to repent! God bless you!



-Pastor Melito Barrera